Ayiana Jones CFNN Opinionists

*This list does not represent the Cape Fear New Network music taste as a whole.

For the longest time, I struggled to find new music to suit my tastes. I thought it’d be a good idea to share the music I’ve found along with insight about them. I’ve chosen ten of my favorite songs based on diversity and emotion. There’s a wide variety of genres so I have no doubt you’d find something you like.  

1. Jeff Buckley – Lover you should’ve come over 

My best friend recommended this song to me when she was going through a tough time and  I’ve been obsessed with it ever since. It has a lot of sentimental meaning towards her and because of that, it also means a lot to me. Jeff has a soft, soothing voice that can put you in a state of ease. The contrast of rhythm and blues creates a safe environment within my mind. It’s intensity slowly builds up and before you know it, you’re lost in it’s beauty. 

2. The GazettE – The invisible wall

The GazettE is considered a Japanese visual kei band. The way this song is executed creates a different vibe that a lot of music don’t have. Heavy rock isn’t for everyone but this song definitely deserves praise. Ruki, the lead singer, mentioned that he thinks we’re all isolated within our own heads aka, the invisible wall. They put a lot of thought into the music they create and I highly recommend giving it a try. 

3. Dominic Fike – 3 nights

I found his song when I came across this edit on Instagram. I had heard of Dominic before but never considered listening to his music. Everytime I hear this song it makes me happy to a certain extent. It’s fairly upbeat and the lyrics have a bit of a story behind it. The genre is a mix between alternative and indie. It’s good music to chill to while you’re doing homework or even cleaning. 

#4. Melanie Martinez – Sippy Cup 

I haven’t been a Melanie fan for too long but the songs I’ve listened to are absolutely phenomenal. She has a set theme for her albums and songs revolving around that theme. Sippy Cup, along with her other music, would fit into the genre of alternative/indie. 

5. Asian Kung-Fu Generation – A Flower Named You 

If you’re an anime fan, you should recognize this band. They’ve produced the second opening to Naruto, “Haruka Kanata”, and the opening to Erased, “Re:Re:” The music they create outside of anime is just as great. 

6. Twice – Fancy 

I’ve met quite a few people that don’t like the genre of K-Pop but trying it wouldn’t hurt anyone. Twice is a korean girl group consisting of nine members. They’ve received the Mnet Asian Music Award for Best Dance  Performance – Female Group and Fancy was nominated for Song of the Year. It’s a good song to get you motivated whenever necessary. 

7. Yung Bae – Welcome to the Disco (feat. Macross 82-99)

If you’re a fan of disco, this song is perfect for you. Yung Bae’s music mostly focuses on dance/electronic and samples 1980’s Japanese city pop. This song will definitely make you want to get up and be productive. 

8. Yuno – No Going Back 

Yuno is another alternative/indie artist I believe deserves more recognition. This is one of those songs that quite a few people have heard before, but don’t know who sings it. “No Going Back” was his first single after signing to Sub Pop. 

9. The Neighbourhood – Prey 

The Neighbourhood is an American indie/rock band from the West Coast. Prey is lyrically vibrant and gives off a cold aura. You can’t help but want to listen to more. 

10. DEAN – Instagram 

Dean has been one of my favorite artists for about a year now. His voice is extraordinarily soothing and relaxing to the ears. He implements problems from todays within his lyrics. “Instagram” specifically focuses on the way communication has been affected by social media. The music video displays visual metaphors in regards to Instagram and how overwhelming it may be to some people. 

If you get a chance, take the time to listen to these songs. I’m sure you’ll appreciate them just as much as I do. It’d be a waste to miss out on good music.